Talent Champion – Joe Prota

Talent Champion Spotlight

2024 Talent Champion - Prota

Joe Prota
Director of Brand Marketing
IBM
Joe Prota is the Director of Brand Marketing for IBM. He works with a fantastic team to educate the market on who IBM is and what IBM does. Before leading Brand Marketing, he helped redefine IBM’s social media strategy, build their social data & influencer practice, and establish their governance process.

Prior to IBM, he spent 15 years working for leading ad agencies. He was lucky enough to grow YouTube as a brand and cultural force, reinvent BMW’s .com experience, and help revolutionize how products are created and marketed at Hasbro.

He graduated from Quinnipiac University with a degree in Marketing and served as co-captain of their NCAA Division 1 lacrosse team. Outside of work, you can find him with his wife, their two boys & their dog, helping a local charity raise money for children’s education or making pizza in the backyard.

What prompted you to get involved with the AEF?

Working in this industry has given me some of the best lessons, experiences, and friends in my life. It only seems right to pay it forward to the next generation, and the AEF is a perfect place to do it.

Why are you passionate about the future of the industry?

The possibilities seem endless. Everything from the constant evolution of technology to changing customer behaviors creates opportunities for innovation. It’s always new and interesting—what’s not to be passionate about?

What is the best career advice you've ever received?

“Make the most important thing, the most important thing.” It sounds silly, but it reminds me to remain connected to the business’s needs and focused on its priorities.

Why do you feel it is so important to inspire the next generation of diverse talent?

Without them, marketing teams will become outdated, advertising will cease to be effective, and innovation will stop. This industry is fluid; we need fresh, diverse perspectives to keep it going.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Learning enough about a new subject to spark an idea, bringing it to the table, and seeing it come to life.

What is the most important skill students should have before they begin their career?

Be cool. This industry is a team sport and can move very fast at times. Remember, everyone is a person, and you’ll go far.

What advice would you give to students as they consider entering the industry?

Learn as much as you can and share your point of view. Through the process you’ll find your voice, learn your strengths, build relationships and maybe even surprise yourself.

2024 Talent Champions

"Our future marketing and advertising leaders are not just looking for a job, they are looking for a meaningful career that will make a positive impact on society."
— Gord McLean, President and CEO at ANA Educational Foundation